Sacramento Walking Sticks is the Sacramento chapter of the American Volksmarch Association (AVA). The Sacramento chapter was started in 1984 and is the largest AVA walking club in the country.
I have a friend who has been an active member of the Sacramento Walking Sticks for a number of years. She has always spoken highly of the non-profit, all-volunteer organization – so I decided to join and signed up both myself and my dog Mickey.
I have to admit that I was uncertain about how Mickey would do on an extended walk. However, the Sacramento Walking Sticks is non-competitive (walk at your own pace) so I figured that we could take our time, as needed.
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The Sacramento Walking Sticks have some “Traditional Events”. One such event is the annual Hot Walkin’ Nights Ice Cream Walk. The Ice Cream Walk is held every year in August. This year the evening walk was on Wednesday, August 9th, with a repeat the next day on the morning of Thursday, August 10th.
The 10K (6.2 miles) Ice Cream Walk is between two locally owned (and well known) ice creameries in the Land Park and Curtis Park neighborhoods – Vic’s and Gunther’s. The walk started at Vic’s on Riverside Blvd. and the route made its way through tree-lined neighborhoods with classic 20’s and 30’s homes to Gunther’s – located on Franklin Blvd.
I decided that Thursday morning might be the best choice since I was taking Mickey for a “test drive”, so to speak. I packed a backpack with water and treats for Mickey and we headed out for Vic’s. We arrived at the registration table in front of Vic’s around 9:30 a.m. As I filled out the required form I mentioned that this was our first walk since joining the Sacramento Walking Sticks, and that I was signing up for the 5K (3.1 mile walk).
I was greeted warmly, provided a map (and directions), and given several dog treats for Mickey. I also acquired a walking partner, for which I was grateful. A nice gentleman who also planned to do the 5K offered to walk with me as his wife, who usually joins him, was working.
It was a beautiful day, and there was an occasional light breeze. My walking partner and I chatted about any number of different things as we made our way around the planned route. The route was also marked with blue chalk at key locations pointing us in the right direction.
Mickey pooped out before we hit the half-way mark – so from there on I carried him for a bit – he walked a bit – repeat. Although he weighs less than 13 pounds he can get heavy!
Once we made it back to Vic’s we headed to the car and home – no ice cream for me! As I expected, Mickey spent most of the remainder of the day sleeping.
The Sacramento Walking Sticks hold walks frequently throughout the region, and I look forward to participating in future walks. Whether Mickey comes along again – or not – is an open question.
Next year I plan to join the Sacramento Walking Sticks for the August evening 10K walk – and leave Mickey at home.
Comments on the Sacramento Walking Sticks?
Are you a member of the Sacramento Walking Sticks? Do you have a favorite walk?
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My flavor or choice was the “Birthday Cake” at Gunther’s. Oh, my – one of the sweetest ice creams ever! I’m so glad you did the walk with Mickey. I’ve sent this post to Barbara. I don’t know if she introduced herself or not. She was registering people that morning. Sorry I missed you. I went with a 10K group about 9:00. Thanks for all the good information!
Bev
I may not be able to wait until next year’s SWS Ice Cream Walk – I may have to do a taste test before then.
Of course I remember you; it’s that picture of Mickey that cinched it! You paired up with Greg Samcoff and off you both went on the 5K. I loved reading your blog and can totally relate to how Mickey fared. When my son was young and he was between a stroller and walking–it was a toss-up what to do? I usually opted to bring the umbrella stroller because I knew if I didn’t bring it–he’d be too pooped to walk and carrying him wouldn’t be a viable option.
I’m a member of the Sticks and their current President. I’ve been volkssporting for 29 years so picking out a favorite walk would be difficult. I love celebrating on New Year’s with our NY’s Eve/Day walks–what a neat way to end and start a new year off; discovering new sights, meeting new people and seeing old friends. Another favorite is Angel Island; the boat ride over to the Island as well as the switchback trails to the top of the mountain.
Thanks for your comment Barbara! I almost did not include Mickey’s picture in the blog post – but I am glad I did.
Such a cool group to be in Sacramento, I might have to inquire about joining the walking sticks for one of their walks!
Just google the Sacramento Walking Sticks for their website and contact info. The cost to join in minimal.